This online course provides a sequenced training on using assistive technology (AT) with young children birth to age five in order to increase their participation in typical early childhood settings. Topics covered include types of AT, evaluating functional use of AT, using AT for communication and emergent literacy and making adaptations. You will need to complete the course within a four week time period.

Objectives

Participants will be able to:

Module 1: Overview of Assistive Technology

Participants will:

Explore the legal basis for providing assistive technology (AT) to children

Examine the types of AT used with young children

Describe the routines, activities and environments in which AT can be used

Identify recommended practices for using AT with young children

Module 2: Determining the need for Assistive Technology/integrating into activities

Participants will:

Describe ways to identify how AT may assist a child

Define universal design for all children

Determine how to monitor whether a trial device is effective

Examine the use of AT in existing routines and functional activities using a collaborative approach.

Module 3: Communicating using Assistive Technology

Participants will:

Examine the types of AT used for communication

Discuss communication message selection

Explore integration of opportunities to communicate into existing activities in home, school, child care and community settings.

Module 4: Emergent Literacy

Participants will:

Define research based strategies for developing literacy skills in children using AAC

Explain the importance of developing literacy skills in children with disabilities

Develop strategies to increase a child’s ability to participate in literacy activities

Module 5: Practical Strategies

Participants will:

Discuss switch selection and use for children who are developmentally delayed

Explore adaptations to common play materials

Identify devices and adaptations that allow children to access the computer

Individuals attending this course must arrive on time and stay the duration of the course in order to receive Act 48 Professional Education hours. Requests for exceptions are to be brought to the attention of the individual´s Superintendent or IU Director prior to the course.

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Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate individuals who have special needs as addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act and who need assistance at this training. Contact: name, at phone, or email.

Registration Deadline

Registration is available until the 25th of the month prior to each offering. Registration for each offering is only available in the month immediately proceeding the start date.